Must Read Books for Teachers in 2023

There are some books that every teacher should read, either to fill their teacher’s soul or perfect their craft! Today, I’m sharing nine books that all teachers should read in 2023.

Well, teacher friends, the end of 2022 is near! Unlike 2020 and 2021, I feel like I’m going to *kinda* miss 2022. Surprisingly, 2022 wasn’t so terrible. Sure, it had its dark spots, but I feel like 2022 went WAY better than previous years. I’m hoping 2023 is even better! With that being said, winter break is upon us, and that means there’s going to be a *wee bit* of time to rest and relax. At this point in the year, I’d give my left foot for a nap, but there’s no rest for this Applicious Teacher. So instead, I’m settling for a bit of relaxation. For me, relaxation equates to reading. So, let’s talk about some of the must-read books for teachers in 2023!

Some of the books I’m sharing today are fun reads, while others are meant to better you as a person, open your eyes to situations you didn’t realize were happening, or help you hone your teaching craft. But all of them are perfect for helping you reshape how 2023 will look in your personal and professional life.

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Must Read Books for Teachers Quick Links

If you’re short on time, click the links below to check out these must-reads for this year!

1. You’re Always Enough

Emily Ley always seems to make her way onto my list… and this year is no different. You’re Always Enough is a powerful book of self-acceptance written by Emily to her daughter. Why is it on this list? The illustrations and messages BEG to be shared with littles across the globe! I think this will make a perfect addition to any classroom SEL lessons.

See the book here!

In addition, Emily released a daily devotional that seems to be the perfect way to start your day! Check that out here!

2. Awakened 2nd Edition

Angela is no stranger to our must-reads list. She made splashes in 2018 and 2020. This time she’s back with a completely revamped version of her best-selling book, Awakened.

Armed with over a decade of self-reflection and research, Angela reformed her words as she guides teachers through transforming their teaching by changing their mindset. If you already have her first version, grab the 2nd to see the updates that reflect the current challenges educators face teaching post-pandemic.

Check out Awakened 2nd Edition here!

3. Reading Strategies Book 2.0

Another repeater is Jennifer Serravallo. Her books have been cornerstones to thousands of teachers over the years. Now she’s back, and this time, she’s revamped her previous best seller with actual research-based strategies. It’s so lovely to see leaders in the educational field working to infuse SOR practices into their own practices.

If you were a Jennifer Serravallo fan before, you’ll love her with this one!

Check out The Reading Strategies Book 2.0 here!

4. Reading Above the Fray

While we’re on the subject of the Science of Reading… if you’re looking for a way to bring some research-based foundational skills to your early literacy classroom, this one might be exactly what you need! Julia Lindsey brings you evidence-backed routines that will help young readers decode words efficiently so they can spend more energy on comprehending–and enjoying–what they read!

Check it out here!

5. Visible Learning in Mathematics

So this list is *pretty* heavy on the reading side of teaching, so let’s round it out a bit with some math best practices. In Visible Learning for Mathematics, you’ll learn the framework to optimize your students’ learning in mathematics this school year!

Check it out here!

6. UFLI Foundations

Team SOR friends, this one is for you! This highly anticipated research-based curriculum is perfect for guiding your path to building strong foundational skills in the early literacy classroom. Created following science-based skills and piloted for two years, this curriculum guide is perfect if you’re element of how to make the switch to science-based reading instruction.

It’s a tad pricey, so you may want to explore your school purchasing options for you and your team! I personally have this (I actually preordered it, I was so excited!), and I use it every day!

Check it out here!

7. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

Part fictional biography/part behind-the-scenes look at the glamor of Hollywood in the 1950s and 1960s… this book is sure to keep you reading.

This is a fun read, perfect for nestling on the couch with your jaw open as you follow the twists and turns of fictional Hollywood icon Evelyn Hugo. Let’s just say… there are def a few things you don’t see coming!

Check it out here!

8. 180 Days of Self-Care for Teachers

Self-care was the buzzword of 2022 with everyone calling for self-care days filled with bubble baths and saying no… but what does self-care look like when you work in a field wholly dedicated to taking care of someone else, like education?

This book was introduced to me through a required book study my school is hosting this year. (I know…I know…a bit of an oxymoron.) But, honestly, it’s very interesting and well-written. Tina provides stories, antidotes, and use-right-now suggestions for implementation!

Def worth a read if you are even a little bit concerned about educator burnout. Check it out here!

9. It Ends with Us

Colleen Hoover is a favorite author for a reason. She has such a talent for writing captivating tales with tons of heart that aren’t really classified as “Rom-Com” or as drama, and It Ends with Us is no different.

Trigger warning, this does give an intimate look at domestic abuse. If you’re looking for a gripping book about love, motherhood, and breaking the cycle… this is a perfect recommendation.

Check it out here!

10. Financial Feminist

One thing I know we need to leave in 2022? Money woes… Pinching pennies is so 2022… and in 2023, it’s time to take hold of our finances and build a life we ​​love!

Check it out here!

10 Books for Teachers in 2023

So, there are my ten must-read books for teachers in 2023. Is there one you would add? Have you read any of these? Be sure to comment below to share your thoughts! 2023 is looking up, friends! Let’s be ready, together!

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Check out all the previous years’ lists by clicking the links below!